Germany and Italy, two of Europe’s economic powerhouses, are set to welcome hundreds of thousands of foreign workers in 2025 to address critical labour shortages.
Italy plans to issue up to 165,000 work visas through its Decreto Flussi programme, with an additional 10,000 visas specifically allocated for caregivers. Germany, on the other hand, aims to attract 400,000 skilled workers annually via its expanded Skilled Immigration Act and new Chancenkarte points-based system.
This was caused by a looming demographic crisis and severe labour shortages which have prompted both countries to significantly increase the number of work visas issued in 2025.
This unprecedented demand for foreign labour spans key sectors including healthcare, IT, engineering, construction, and hospitality, offering numerous opportunities for international workers seeking to relocate to Europe.
Reasons for the surge in work visa issuance
Italy and Germany’s decision to ramp up work visa issuance in 2025 is driven by two primary factors:
Demographic and labour market challenges
Both countries face declining birth rates and ageing populations, resulting in a shortage of skilled and unskilled workers in essential sectors. This demographic shift has led to policy changes aimed at attracting international talent to sustain economic growth and maintain critical services.
Government policies and work visa reforms
Italy: The Italian government increased its Decreto Flussi (Foreign Worker Quota Decree) to 452,000 work visas for 2023-2025, with 165,000 planned for 2025. This quota covers seasonal and non-seasonal employment in industries facing acute labour shortages.
Additionally, an extra 10,000 work visas were approved in October 2024 for caregivers, reflecting the growing need for elder care.
Germany: Germany introduced the Skilled Immigration Act in 2020 and further expanded it in 2024.
The new Chancenkarte (Opportunity Card), a points-based immigration system, will facilitate the entry of skilled workers, even without a prior job offer.
Germany aims to attract 400,000 foreign workers annually to address critical job gaps.
Industries needing skilled labour
Both Italy and Germany have specific sectors experiencing significant labour shortages:
Italy
– Healthcare and Personal Care: Caregivers, nurses, and medical assistants.
– Tourism and Hospitality: Chefs, hotel staff, and waiters.
– Construction: Skilled labourers, engineers, and technicians.
– Agriculture and Fisheries: Seasonal farm workers and fishermen.
– Transport and Logistics: Truck drivers and delivery personnel.
– Technology and Telecommunications: IT professionals and technicians.
Germany:
– Healthcare: Doctors, nurses, and elderly care assistants.
– Engineering and Manufacturing: Mechanical, electrical, and civil engineers.
– IT and Software Development: Programmers, cybersecurity experts, and AI specialists.
– Logistics and Transport: Truck drivers, warehouse managers, and supply chain specialists.
– Education and Childcare: Kindergarten and primary school teachers.
– Skilled Trades: Electricians, plumbers, and construction workers.
